BAE Purses Saudi Arabia, UAE Typhoon Combat Jet Exports

BAE Systems Plc, Europe’s largest defense company, said production of Typhoon combat jets may extend past this decade as it works to secure a follow-up order in Saudi Arabia and for 60 jets from the United Arab Emirates.

The deals could secure production, currently running out in the first quarter 2018, until 2022 at a rate of 30 planes a year, Chief Executive Officer Ian King told reporters today. Saudi Arabia may buy 48 to 72 more jets beyond 72 on order, with a bid to be submitted soon to the UAE, he said.